What is the Character Interpretation Strategy? · Assign or allow students to choose a historical character from your current unit of study. · The students will conduct research and create a first person monologue to perform while acting and speaking like they are that particular historical character. · The focus of this activity is for the students to be able to transform themselves and the audience into a different place and time through their knowledge of history. · There are several examples of Character Interpretation: o Students studying about jobs may research and present information about the work of firefighters, librarians, police officers, teachers, etc. o Students studying about Ancient Egypt may research and present information on historical characters such as Ramses the Great and Queen Hatshepsut. · Students are then evaluated according to their information they present and the comments they choose to add to their presentation.
Pros · A great way for students of all ages to experience history. · Provides a connection with the past and helps explain historical people and events in a personal way. · Engages students · In-depth research of particular historical figures · FUN!!!
Cons · May lose the educational value if the strategy is performed incorrectly. · Some students may not feel comfortable speaking in front of the entire class. · If the students do not have a sufficient understanding of the character this strategy would not be ideal. · Every student may not receive a turn interpreting a historical character.
· Assign or allow students to choose a historical character from your current unit of study.
· The students will conduct research and create a first person monologue to perform while acting and speaking like they are that particular historical character.
· The focus of this activity is for the students to be able to transform themselves and the audience into a different place and time through their knowledge of history.
· There are several examples of Character Interpretation:
o Students studying about jobs may research and present information about the work of firefighters, librarians, police officers, teachers, etc.
o Students studying about Ancient Egypt may research and present information on historical characters such as Ramses the Great and Queen Hatshepsut.
· Students are then evaluated according to their information they present and the comments they choose to add to their presentation.
Pros
· A great way for students of all ages to experience history.
· Provides a connection with the past and helps explain historical people and events in a personal way.
· Engages students
· In-depth research of particular historical figures
· FUN!!!
Cons
· May lose the educational value if the strategy is performed incorrectly.
· Some students may not feel comfortable speaking in front of the entire class.
· If the students do not have a sufficient understanding of the character this strategy would not be ideal.
· Every student may not receive a turn interpreting a historical character.